Apapa Customs Intercepts N26.57bn Cannabis Concealed in Imported Vehicles 

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Apapa Area Command, has intercepted 4,143.5 kilogrammes of Cannabis Indica with a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of ₦26.57 billion, concealed inside a 40-foot container carrying imported used vehicles at the Lagos Port.

The seizure was made during a joint examination conducted by officers of the Command and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), following credible intelligence.

According to a statement issued on Tuesday, 14 July 2026, by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Chief Superintendent of Customs Isah Sulaiman, the Customs Area Controller (CAC), Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, ordered a detailed examination of container No. FANU1933352, leading to the discovery of the illicit consignment on 10 July 2026.

The container was found to contain three used vehicles comprising a 2015 red Nissan Micra, a 2019 black Toyota Corolla S, and a 2015 grey Toyota Corolla.

A thorough search uncovered 162 bags containing 8,287 parcels of Cannabis Indica, with each parcel weighing 500 grams, bringing the total weight of the seizure to 4,143.5 kilogrammes.

Customs said four bags of the illicit substance were concealed inside the Nissan Micra, while the remaining 158 bags were hidden beneath the container floor and in spaces between the three vehicles. No prohibited items were found inside the two Toyota Corolla vehicles.

Commenting on the seizure, Comptroller Oshoba said the interception underscores the Command’s vigilance and commitment to preventing prohibited items from entering the country through the nation’s busiest seaport.

He noted that the operation aligns with the zero-tolerance policy of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, against illicit trade and the importation of prohibited goods.

To him, “This seizure once again demonstrates our untiring commitment in ensuring that only lawful trade thrives in Apapa Port. As we intensify investigation into the matter, I want to reiterate that this command has made the port a no go area for any thing forbidden by our laws.

‎”Let me use this opportunity to rebuild the confidence of our compliant traders and assure them once again that they would always enjoy the many trade facilitation incentives emplaced by the Comptroller General of Customs”.

The Customs Area Controller reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to facilitating legitimate trade while maintaining strict enforcement against prohibited and restricted imports.

He also commended officers involved in the operation for their diligence and professionalism.

Following the interception, Comptroller Oshoba ordered the seizure of the container in line with the provisions of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, while investigations into the shipment continue.